Is it okay to use triamcinolone cream one or twice to reduce early swelling of the nose?

Question

I had previous nose surgery to fix a deviated septum along with other issues which resulted in osteoma formation on the dorsal hump of my nose. I have the triamcinolone cream from previously which was used to treat an allergic reaction. I know that long term use has some dangerous skin effects, but I was hoping to use the cream just once or twice to reduce swelling.

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

I don't think your steroid cream will help.  Using it topically will not penetrate to where the actual swelling is.   Swelling is just part of the natural healing process so let heal and wait for the swelling to go down on its own.  For your final outcome, it may take up to 1-2 years so be patient!  Best Wishes!!

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, the topical steroid cream won't work deep enough to change your postoperative rhinoplasty swelling. It's better used to treat the outer skin, like you had with your allergic reaction.You can discuss with your surgeon whether there are other ways to improve your nose swelling sooner.

Daniel Zeichner, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Although there may be a slight degree of subdermal penetration of topically administered triamcinolone cream, I doubt if would be of clinical significance. Your previous treatment was for a disorder of the skin. Inflammatory swelling of soft tissues, cartilage, and bone is "out of reach" for topically administered steroid. In unusual instances of excessive nasal swelling after surgery, injectable steroids are sometimes used. As you know, pigmentary disturbances of the skin can occur with just 2 weeks' application.  Swelling after rhinoplasty is a normal phenomenon. Speak with your plastic surgeon regarding the advisability of steroid application.
Best wishes...

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Mattdavidson, The topical use of steroid cream will not penetrate down to the soft tissues and reduce swelling in the nose post surgery. In patients who have prolonged swelling or thick skin some surgeons may use injectable steroids. Discuss any medications or creams that you consider using with your surgeon as every surgeon has their own post operative protocol. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Is it okay to use triamcinolone cream one or twice to reduce early swelling of the nose?

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Answer: Applying Topical Steroid Cream After Rhinoplasty

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Is it okay to use triamcinolone cream one or twice to reduce early swelling of the nose?

Answers (4)

Answer: Applying Topical Steroid Cream After Rhinoplasty

Answer: Applying Topical Steroid Cream After Rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.